The Independent Cosmetic Manufacturers and Distributors Association (ICMAD) announced recently the three student finalists and two honorable mentions in the 17th Annual Young Designers Competition.
Finalists and honorable mentions were selected from more than 135 student participants from 14 schools. The finalists included:
- Stephen Finley from Colorado Mesa University
- Emily Lora Harris from Colorado Mesa University
- Nicole Shepherd from Academy of Art, Chicago
The honorable mentions included:
- Esther Betancourt from University of Las Vegas Nevada
- Sarah El Mouden from Miami International University of Art & Design
Established in 1999, the Young Designers program showcases the talents of college-level students studying graphic and package design. The competition recognizes the best design students through their creativity and ingenuity on an original cosmetic package project representative of the industry.
In this year's competition, each student received a clear 8 oz. plastic bottle donated by East Hill Industries, Inc. and Collcap Packaging. Professors were provided instructions for incorporating the competition and project into their classroom curriculum or as an extra-curricular activity.
"Our Young Designers program encourages and develops future creative talent for the beauty industry by tapping into the higher education system and providing real-world experience," said Pamela Jo Busiek, president and CEO of ICMAD. "This is a visionary way for ICMAD to help shape and ensure emerging creativity and ability among students to pursue an in-demand profession in cosmetics and personal care."
Winners will be named at an awards dinner taking place Thursday, Feb. 18, at the Island Hotel in Newport Beach, California.
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